This Is Why You Should Let Teens Have Lots of Down Time

If you are a parent of a teenager, you are familiar with the transition that occurs. They go from being active and energetic to sleeping in and napping throughout the day. Simple tasks like taking out the trash or cleaning up after themselves become monumental chores, and they aren’t shy about expressing their complaints.

When my oldest child went through this phase, I couldn’t understand why he was always so tired. I couldn’t comprehend how he could sleep in late, take naps constantly, and seem disinterested in everything.

Getting him to tidy his room was a challenge. He would start cleaning and then end up lying on his bed with his shoes on and his sweatshirt half off.

In an attempt to motivate him, I gave him more chores and signed him up for volunteering and sports coaching. However, this approach backfired, pushing him further into his lethargic state.

Realizing that I was fighting a losing battle, I decided to step back and let him be. I stopped pressuring him to be more active and involved, and something remarkable happened. As I allowed him the freedom to rest and relax, he began to do so less frequently.

I reflected on my own teenage years, where I spent a summer growing and napping. It was during that time that I discovered my love for writing and decided to become a writer. Giving my son the space to relax allowed him to rediscover his interests and passions.

By giving my son the freedom to figure out his own path, he began to take initiative and pursue his interests. He found employment, started helping around the house, and engaged in hobbies that brought him joy.

This approach also had a positive impact on my younger children, who found their own passions and interests when given the freedom to explore.

While this may not be the solution for every family, it worked for mine. By allowing our teens the space to relax and discover themselves, we can support their growth and happiness without overwhelming them with pressure and expectations.

Sleep Specialist: How Teens Can Get More Sleep

Does Your Teen Sleep Until 2PM? Let It Go, Summer Slumber Is Normal

As a sleep specialist, I often hear from parents concerned about their teen’s sleeping habits, especially during the summer months. It’s not uncommon for teenagers to stay up late and sleep in until the afternoon, but is this really a cause for concern? Let’s explore how teens can get more sleep and why summer slumber is normal.

First and foremost, it’s important to understand that teenagers have different sleep patterns compared to adults. Their internal body clocks, or circadian rhythms, are naturally programmed to stay up later and sleep in later. This means that sleeping until 2PM during the summer is not necessarily a sign of laziness or poor sleep habits, but rather a reflection of their biological needs.

So, what can parents do to help their teens get more sleep? One key strategy is to establish a consistent sleep schedule, even during the summer months. Encouraging your teen to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day can help regulate their sleep patterns and improve the quality of their rest.

Additionally, creating a relaxing bedtime routine can signal to the body that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep. This could include activities such as reading a book, taking a warm bath, or practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.

Limiting screen time before bed is also crucial, as the blue light emitted from devices like smartphones and laptops can disrupt the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. Encourage your teen to power down electronics at least an hour before bedtime to promote better sleep quality.

Lastly, it’s important to prioritize physical activity during the day, as exercise can help regulate sleep patterns and improve overall sleep quality. Encourage your teen to engage in regular physical activity, whether it’s going for a walk, playing a sport, or practicing yoga.

In conclusion, while it’s normal for teens to sleep in during the summer months, there are strategies parents can implement to help their teens get more restful sleep. By establishing a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, limiting screen time before bed, and prioritizing physical activity, teens can improve their sleep quality and overall well-being.